Episode #60: The Hidden Dangers of Moldy Smells with Dr. Joan Bennett

Can VOCs be absorbed through your skin? How do fungi and other organisms use mVOCs to communicate with one another? 

Dr. Joan Bennett, a leading fungal geneticist, unpacks these intriguing questions in this science-packed episode. Explore the differences between microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) and mycotoxins, and what the odors they release reveal. Find out if the absence of musty smells means your home is mold-free, whether mVOCs pose health risks, and how mushroom alcohol, fruit flies, and Hurricane Katrina connect to mVOC research. Don’t miss this deep dive into the world of mVOCs!

Episode Highlights:

• What are microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) and how does our ability to smell them work? (2:20)
• What’s happening when mold and bacteria create odors that we can detect, and what accounts for their variety in odor? (7:26)
• Does no odor mean no mold? (10:29)
• How did Hurricane Katrina inspire Dr. Bennett’s study of mVOCs? (13:16)
• Are microbial volatile organic compounds (mVOCs) a health threat? (22:06)
• What’s the difference between mVOCs and mycotoxins? (28:05)
• Can mVOCs be absorbed through our skin? (32:15)
• How do organisms and fungi use mVOCs to communicate with one another? (35:42)

Links Mentioned in Interview:

Are Some Fungal Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) Mycotoxins? By Dr. Joan Bennett and Dr.Arati A Inamdar

https://www.researchgate.net/publication/282153519_Are_Some_Fungal_Volatile_Organic_Compounds_VOCs_Mycotoxins

Joan Bennett: Embracing volatility: fungal scents do more than just smell good or bad

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qMdxldbxws

Get in Touch with Our Guest:

Website: https://dbm.rutgers.edu/personnel/joan-bennett.html

Learn more about Change the Air Foundation:

https://www.changetheairfoundation.org

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Disclaimer: Your Indoor Air Podcast, a Change the Air Foundation production, is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute the practice of medicine, nursing, healthcare or other professional services, such as giving healthcare advice. The use of information on this podcast or materials linked from this podcast is at the user’s own risk. The content of this podcast is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical care.  Users should not disregard or delay in seeking medical attention for any medical condition or concern they may have.